The gardening expert also urged people to “keep feeding the birds all month”
Sophie Buchan Money and Lifestyle Writer
11:51, 26 Mar 2026
British television presenter and gardener Monty Don(Image: Colin McPherson/Corbis via Getty Images)
Gardening guru Monty Don has urged people to “keep feeding birds” this month and across April. The much-loved expert shared that you don’t need to go out and buy any specific food – and you probably have it already.
The broadcaster and horticulturist said in his April 2024 blog: “Most birds will be nesting and laying eggs and hatching young over the course of the month. Keep putting out food if you have any.
“Flakes of cheese and breadcrumbs are good if you do not have access to conventional bird food.” He also mentioned in his March 2024 blog that there are other foods you can seek out if you want to help wildlife.
Some bird diseases can affect humans, though the risk is low(Image: Getty)
He wrote: “Most birds are nesting and laying eggs this month, and many will start rearing young. So this is a time that puts great demands on their energy when there is not much natural food around.
“So keep feeding the birds all month, concentrating on high-energy items such as fat, peanuts and sunflower seeds.”
Where should I put bird feeders?
According to the Royal Society for the Protection of Birds (RSPB), you can put your bird feeder anywhere, but it should ideally be in a quiet place where birds won’t be disturbed. It should also be somewhere safe and “sheltered from harsh winds.”
It explains: “Not too close to bushes where predators could hide in wait, but close enough to cover so that birds can easily dart away. Birds like to have a view all around them while feeding. “
It added: “Wherever you place your feeder, make sure you can see it when you’re indoors so you can get the most pleasure from it!. Bear in mind, it can take a little bit of time for the birds to get used to a new feeder, so don’t be disappointed if not many birds visit at first.”
Are you using bird feeders or a bird bath?
Place your bird feeder in a safe place, “sheltered from harsh winds”(Image: Getty)
Keeping bird feeders clean is important for the health of visiting birds. The RSPB suggests remembering the following:
Clean
Brush off any debris each time you refill feedersOnce a week, scrub feeders using a mild disinfectant solutionMove feeders occasionally to prevent droppings from building up underneathRinse water containers daily, especially in warm weather – let them dry before refilling
If you see a sick bird
Stop feeding immediatelyClean feeders thoroughlyStore them away (e.g. in a garage or shed)Wait 2-4 weeks before feeding againIf you see another sick bird, repeat the process
Safety for people
Some bird diseases can affect humans, though the risk is lowWear gloves when cleaning feeders or bird bathsWash your hands thoroughly afterwards
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